Did you know that one serving of natural (unroasted) pecans contains 691 calories? Pecans are a great source of nutrition, providing many beneficial health benefits.

Pecans are packed with nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also a good source of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Additionally, they contain antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information and health benefits of pecans, as well as some practical tips and strategies for including them in your diet. We'll also provide some delicious pecan recipes to try out!

Nutritional Information

As mentioned before, pecans are a great source of nutrition. A one-ounce serving (about 19 halves) of pecans contains: -196 calories -3 grams of protein -20 grams of fat (mostly unsaturated) -2.7 grams of fiber -12% of the daily recommended value of zinc -10% of the daily recommended value of magnesium -4% of the daily recommended value of iron While pecans are high in calories, they can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.

Health Benefits

Pecans have a variety of health benefits, including: -Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke -Improved digestion -Reduced inflammation -Reduced risk of some cancers -Improved brain function Eating pecans can also help control blood sugar levels and promote healthy aging.

Ways to Include Pecans in Your Diet

Pecans can be a versatile ingredient in your diet. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your meals: -Add them to your oatmeal or yogurt in the morning -Chop them up and use as a salad topping -Use pecan butter instead of peanut butter -Add them to baked goods such as muffins or bread Pecans can also be enjoyed as a snack on their own!

Pecan Recipes

Here are some delicious pecan recipes to try out: -Maple Pecan Overnight Oats -Pecan Crusted Chicken -Sweet Potato Pecan Casserole -Pecan Pie Bars These recipes are a great way to incorporate pecans into your meals and snacks!

Serving Size

A one-ounce serving of pecans is approximately 19 halves or about 1/3 cup. This serving size contains 196 calories and is a healthy portion to consume as a snack or ingredient in a recipe.

Pecans vs Other Nuts

While many nuts have similar nutritional profiles, pecans have a few unique benefits. Compared to other nuts, pecans have higher levels of antioxidants and are a good source of Vitamin E. Pecans also have more monounsaturated fats than most nuts, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Safety Precautions

It's important to note that some people may have an allergy to tree nuts, including pecans. If you have a nut allergy, it's important to avoid consuming pecans or products containing pecans.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your pecans, it's important to store them properly. Pecans should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. They can also be stored at room temperature for a short period of time, but may become rancid if not consumed quickly.

Pecan Farming

Pecans are grown primarily in the Southern United States, but can also be found in other parts of the world. They are a popular crop due to their high nutritional value and economic importance.

Pecans and the Environment

Pecan farming can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment. On one hand, pecan trees can help absorb carbon dioxide and improve soil health. On the other hand, large-scale monoculture farming practices can lead to soil erosion and damage to natural ecosystems.